The ShakeOut Drill is scheduled for 10:19 a.m. on October 19, 2023. In the event of a major earthquake or other disaster, Eastmoreland neighbors could provide critically needed support to each other and local schools. Here are three things you can do:

1. Review this weekly planner from the City of Portland and use it to help your family prepare.

2. Participate in the “Great Oregon Shakeout,” which is part of FEMA’s “Great American Shakeout” earthquake drill which will be held on Thursday, Oct 19. We are responding to the state’s website, www.shakeout.org/Oregon which provides information and materials your family can use. The website explains:

All neighborhood groups are encouraged to participate in the drill (or plan a more extensive exercise). Major earthquakes may happen anywhere you live, work, or travel. The ShakeOut is our chance to practice how to protect ourselves, and for everyone to become prepared. The goal is to prevent a major earthquake from becoming a catastrophe for you, your organization, and your community.… Everyone can participate! Individuals, families, businesses, schools, colleges, government agencies and organizations are all invited to register.

3. Contact the Eastmoreland Neighborhood Association’s Emergency Preparedness Committee with your questions and offers to help. We met with the Duniway Principal this week to discuss how neighbors could support the school’s Emergency Team and we’re working on a local emergency plan. We also encourage people to learn about Portland’s Neighborhood Emergency Team (NET) and Basic Earthquake Emergency Node (BEECN) programs which are active but severely understaffed – both need new volunteers and information is available at https://www.portland.gov/pbem.

Please contact us by emailing ready@eastmoreland.org or calling Rob at 503-833-2266 with your questions and suggestions. - Rob Walton, Chair of the Eastmoreland Emergency Preparedness Committee